Metro expands accessibility services for FIFA World Cup fans

To help World Cup fans navigate one of the world's largest sporting events, Metro has added a series of accessibility enhancements aimed at improving the rider experience. The upgrades include sensory rooms, navigation tools for visually impaired passengers and hydration stations throughout the transit system.

“People from around the world are visiting Los Angeles during the World Cup and as the official transportation provider for the Los Angeles World Cup 2026 Host City, Metro is helping make the trip as stress free and comfortable as possible,” said Fernando Dutra, Metro Board Chair in a statement.

From June 25-28 Metro will offer temporary sensory rooms at Union Station, 7th Street/Metro Center Station and the LAX Metro Transit Center Station. According to officials, the spaces will offer a calm and supportive environment for neurodiverse passengers and others who may experience sensory overload from crowds, noise or lighting.

These temporary rooms are designed by the nonprofit Kulture City, an organization dedicated to sensory accessibility. The sensory rooms will feature bean bags, mats, an enclosed environment that helps minimize noise, adjustable lighting, sensory tools, tactile items and noise-reducing headphones. 

Metro also announced an expansion of its accessibility partnership with Waymap, a navigation platform designed to assist blind and visually impaired riders. This is currently available at six rail stations and is expected to expand to six additional stations by June 26. 

Additionally, to help riders cope with L.A, summer temperatures, Metro is providing hydration stations at locations throughout the transit system. The stations will include drinking water, shade, misting fans, sunscreen and cooling towels.

The hydration stations are located at transit hubs and park-and-ride facilities including Union Station, the LAX/Metro Transit Center, Downtown Inglewood, Downtown Santa Monica, North Hollywood, Little Tokyo and other locations serving World Cup-related travel.

“From navigation tools and calming spaces to hydration stations and other customer amenities, we’re making Metro more accessible, inclusive and welcoming as part of our efforts to serve both Angelenos and visitors during the World Cup,” said Metro CEO Stephanie Wiggins.